Family Resources

Cognitive Assessment Tools

Do you have reason to suspect you or a loved one might be suffering from Alzheimer's disease? These cognitive assessment tools from the Alzheimer's Association can help provide perspective on cognitive function and jump-start the conversation on Alzheimer's with a doctor. It should not be used in lieu of a proper diagnosis from a qualified medical professional.

24/7 Helpline

In My Community

The Alzheimer's Association is present all over the United States. This tool helps patients and loved ones find local programs and services available in your area, including support groups and educational workshops.

ALZConnected

Managed by the Alzheimer's Association, ALZConnected offers an online community dedicated to supporting people experiencing Alzheimer's disease, their loved ones, and caregivers. On this site, you'll find message boards and groups filled with people experiencing similar struggles all seeking advice, connection, and insight.

Alzheimer's Navigator

Feeling overwhelmed in the face of an Alzheimer's diagnosis is a common experience. To help get affairs in order, the Alzheimer's Association developed Alzheimer's Navigator to guide you to answers by creating a personalized action plan. It is designed to help caregivers and people with dementia evaluate their needs, execute action steps and connect with local programs and services.

Alzheimer's Foundation of America Toll-Free Hot Line

The Alzheimer's Foundation of America toll-free hot line is staffed by licensed social workers and other professionals knowledgeable about Alzheimer's disease and related illnesses. No question is too small; no concern is too insignificant. The hot line operates during regular business hours: Monday through Friday, 9 am to 5 pm (ET). During these hours, social workers are available by phone, as well as via Skype and live chat.

WebMD's Alzheimer's Community

Looking for others who are experiencing Alzheimer's online? WebMD's Alzheimer's Community is designed to help connect patients and caregivers to a group of people where they can share experiences and advice.

Caregiver Resources and Support

Alzheimer's Association Caregiver Center

If a loved one has recently been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease and you've been tasked with the role of their caregiver, the responsibility can seem overwhelming at first. Get plenty of solid, realistic advice from the Alzheimer's Association Caregiver Center which is full of information for caregivers at every state of Alzheimer's. You are not alone!

Caring for a Person With Alzheimer's

This comprehensive, 104-page e book offers easy-to-understand information and advice for at-home caregivers of people with Alzheimer’s disease. It addresses all aspects of care, from bathing and eating to visiting the doctor and getting respite care.

Daily Care

A person with dementia will eventually need assistance with daily living. By using creativity and caregiving skills, you can adapt routines and activities as needs change. Use our resources to get ideas and connect with other caregivers. Get daily care tips at the Alzheimer's Association's site. It covers everything from how to establish a solid routine, deal with personal care, and learn more about the medical needs of an Alzheimer's patient.

Financial and Legal Planning

Putting financial and legal plans in place now allows the person with dementia to express wishes for future care and decisions. It also allows time to work through the complex issues involved in long-term care. The Alzheimer's Association's Financial and Legal Planning Center allows patients to identify ways to cover cost, understand legal matters, and find assistance in your area.

Alzheimer's Association Safety Center

Safety is important for everyone, but taking specific precautions becomes vital as dementia progresses. By putting measures in place, you can prevent injuries and help the person with Alzheimer's feel comfortable. The Alzheimer's Association Safety Center is designed to help you address safety concerns, choose a location management service, and prepare for special situations like traveling.

Dementia and Driving Resource Center

In the United States and other car-centric cultures, a car means independence and freedom to move. But driving demands quick reaction time and fast decision making. Because of this, a person with Alzheimer's will eventually become unable to drive. Dealing with the issue early on can help ease the transition. The Dementia and Driving Resource Center is built to help caregivers and patients deal with the issue early so the transition away from driving will be easier.

Driving Contract

Sometimes, having a written reminder of an Alzheimer's patient's promise not to drive as their symptoms worsen can help diffuse a stressful situation for both patient and caregiver. The Alzheimer's Association's Driving Contract is an excellent resource for those preparing for the day that Alzheimer's disease will make drivers give up their keys.

Hospitalization Happens: A Guide to Hospital Visits for Individuals with Memory Loss

A trip to the hospital with a person who has memory loss or dementia can be stressful for both of you. This publication can relieve some of that stress by helping you prepare for both unexpected and planned hospital visits. It is also available as a PDF here.

Additional Safety Resources in PDF

The following is a collection of PDFs created by the Alzheimer's Association which address the issue of safety with Alzheimer's. They are free to download and print.